Beyond visibility: social workers’ perspectives on child neglect among children living with disabilities in Chitungwiza

Abstract

Child neglect remains one of the most prevalent forms of child abuse worldwide, with children living with disabilities being particularly vulnerable due to their increased dependency on caregivers and social support systems. This study explored social workers’ perspectives on child neglect among children living with disabilities in Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe. The study was guided by Attachment Theory and employed a qualitative research approach within an interpretivist paradigm to gain an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. A case study design was adopted, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews with social workers and key informants drawn from government departments, non-governmental organisations, and community-based organisations working with children with disabilities. Purposive sampling was used to select participants with relevant experience and knowledge. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that child neglect among children living with disabilities manifests in various forms, including physical neglect, emotional neglect, educational neglect, and medical neglect. The study identified poverty, caregiver stress, limited knowledge of disability issues, stigma, and inadequate support services as key factors contributing to neglect. The findings further highlighted several consequences of neglect, such as poor physical and mental health, social isolation, low self-esteem, educational challenges, and compromised overall wellbeing. Social workers reported employing interventions such as case management, family counselling, community awareness campaigns, referrals, and advocacy; however, these efforts were constrained by high caseloads, limited resources, and inadequate inter-agency coordination. The study concludes that addressing child neglect among children living with disabilities requires a multi-sectoral approach involving government institutions, social workers, communities, and families. The study recommends increased funding for child protection services, strengthened community awareness programmes, enhanced support for caregivers, and improved coordination among stakeholders to promote the welfare and protection of children living with disabilities.